Five Nursing Specialties to Consider

Whether you’re a nursing student trying to choose a career path or an experienced RN who is looking for a change of pace, making decisions about a nursing specialty takes a lot of careful consideration. You’ll want to look at daily job requirements, average pay scales, opportunities for growth, and other job features before making your final decision. While there are dozens upon dozens of specialties to choose from, here are five specialties that have great opportunities available for the right person.

Certified Nurse Anesthetist

This is one of the top paying nursing specialties in the current market, averaging around $73.85 per hour, according to Payscale. Positions are available in hospitals, surgery centers, dental practices, pain management centers, the military, and many other facilities. Those considering a career as a CRNA should be calm under pressure, communicate well, and have strong critical thinking skills.

Certified Nurse Midwife

Many nurses who have a heart for the tiniest of patients enjoy a career as a Certified Nurse Midwife. Depending on location, the average salary reported on Payscale.com for those in this profession is approximately $86,000 per year. Certified nurse midwives generally work in an OB/GYN office, public health clinic, hospital, or birthing center facility. CNMs should possess strong leadership and teaching abilities, patience, and solid problem-solving skills.

Travel Nurse

Those who enjoy a varied routine and aren’t looking to put down roots may want to consider a career as a travel nurse. These positions are shorter term, but give you the opportunity to spend time in different locations from job to job. Often, you will be working in a number of different facility and specialty types, giving you a great deal of practical experience. The median salary for travel nurses is around $31 per hour, with travel stipends and housing allowances frequently offered.

Nursing Administration

If you have a head for the organizational aspects of nursing, consider a career in nursing administration. While there is less direct patient interaction, nurses in this position are responsible for the development and implementation of the policies and procedures that will improve the level of care received by patients and help to advocate for the needs of the nurses within their facility, among other duties. According to Payscale.com, rates vary widely, with the median salary for Directors of Nursing around $80,000.

Nursing Informatics

Tech-savvy individuals who are also interested in the science of nursing may find a good fit within a nursing informatics specialty. Nurses within this field use information and communication technology and programs to assist nurses, health care professionals, and patients. These jobs are best for those with good problem-solving skills and those who work well independently, with a love for new technological advances. According to Indeed, Informatics Nurses have an average salary of $83,000 a year.

The best decision on a nursing specialty will depend on your own personality, strengths, and workplace needs, but these are just a few of the amazing jobs available within the profession. Be sure to weigh your options carefully and choose a specialty that fits with your strengths and needs.

Contributor

Ron Washburn

Ron runs our nursing division and has been with Soliant since its small beginnings in the early 90s. He’s an integral part of our organization, and not only hosts trainings for our groups, but manages company events and continues to run a desk of clients and candidates.